Prediction of subclinical atherosclerosis in low Framingham risk score individuals by using the metabolic syndrome criteria and insulin sensitivity index

BackgroundSubclinical atherosclerosis can be present in individuals with an optimal cardiovascular risk factor profile. Traditional risk scores such as the Framingham risk score do not adequately capture risk stratification in low-risk individuals. The aim of this study was to determine if markers of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance can better stratify low-risk individuals.MethodsA cross-sectional study of 101 healthy participants with a low Framingham risk score and no prior morbidities was performed to assess prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis using computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound. Participants were compared between groups based on Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) and Insulin-Sensitivity Index (ISI-cal) scores.ResultsTwenty three individuals (23%) had subclinical atherosclerosis with elevated CT Agatston score ≥1. Presence of both insulin resistance (ISI-cal